The island was still trembling from the force of their dap-up. The two figures, Gol D. Roger and Draco stood grinning at each other, both happy after their fight. Roger was happy that he was able to fight against so stronger than him, knowing Draco was holding back, while Draco was just happy that it calmed down. Roger's crewmates, still in awe, slowly began to gather around, unsure of what had just happened. Roger's playful yet commanding demeanor returned as he wiped the sweat and blood from his brow.
"You're something else, kid," Roger said, his voice carrying a tone of admiration. "I haven't had a fight like that in years. We could tear the whole world apart if we fought for real." His laughter echoed through the quiet aftermath.
Draco, though calm on the surface, was slightly taken aback by Roger's resilience especially since he started the fight. He had fought countless battles since gaining his strength, but Roger's ability to withstand his attacks was something he didn't expect.
"I'll give you credit for that," Draco said, smirking, "You're the strongest person I've met in a long time." His words weren't meant as flattery, he genuinely respected the pirate king for his strength.
Roger starts sweating, 'strongest person I've met in a long time? aren't ya just 8-year-old?'
Roger sheathed his sword with a satisfied grin. "Well then, it's settled. You'll join my crew, and together we'll conquer the seas! Heahahaha!" His voice brimmed with excitement at the prospect of having someone as strong as Draco by his side.
But Draco raised his hand. "I retract that now, considering I had never wanted to fight you but you forced it." His calm words silenced Roger's excitement momentarily.
"What?" Roger's grin faltered. "You're not joining?"
Draco shook his head. "I said I would but... considering what you did... You've got my respect, Roger, but how about I sail with you, fight beside you, if need be, but I won't be a part of your crew. Consider me a friend or ally."
For a brief moment, Roger looked disappointed, his usual boundless energy dimming. But then, almost as quickly, his smile returned broader and more genuine. "Heahahaha! Well, who am I to complain about gaining a powerful ally instead of a crewmate? Fine by me, Draco! You'll be our ally, and together we'll still have the greatest adventures!" Roger's laughter filled the air again, and with it came a sense of relief.
"Now let's have a party!" Roger bellowed, raising his arms in triumph.
The Roger Pirates erupted into cheers, and soon the island was alive with celebration. Bonfires were lit, drinks were passed around, and music filled the air as the crew gathered around the fire to feast and celebrate Draco's addition as their powerful ally. The legendary Gol D. Roger's crew, a band of the most infamous and dangerous pirates, treated Draco like one of their own, despite his refusal to officially join them.
As Draco sat with Roger, Rayleigh, and the others, he found himself drinking and laughing in a way he hadn't done in years. The night was filled with tales of adventure and camaraderie. Kid Shanks, full of youthful curiosity, approached Draco with wide eyes.
"How'd you get so strong?" Shanks asked, clearly in awe. His young voice was filled with admiration, and Buggy hovered nearby, nodding eagerly, though trying to hide his own interest.
Draco took a long drink before answering. "Hard work and a lot of training. But it's more about understanding your limits than just being strong." He looked out at the ocean, thinking back to the countless days he'd spent alone on his island.
Roger, beside Draco, smirked. "Hard to believe someone like you has limits."
Draco chuckled lightly. "You'd be surprised." His mind wandered back to the early days on the island, and a flash of memories crossed his mind.
----Flashback----
Years ago, Draco stood alone on the very same island, his body trembling as he tried to control his newfound strength. His punches would destroy everything in their path. He had once tried to hunt a Sea King, only for his first punch to obliterate it entirely, leaving nothing behind but a large hole in the water where the creature had been.
He remembered honing tirelessly to control his power, punching boulders, uprooting trees by accident, and even creating massive craters in the ground when he merely tried to swing his arms. He couldn't stay in control; every small action caused chaos.
Over time, he learned to harness his strength, restrain himself, and only unleash it when needed. He recalled meeting kind travelers who had washed up on the shore, abandoned ships, merchants, washed-up survivors, and a decent number of kind pirates. They shared stories, food, and their way of life with Draco. Though he had been stranded on this island, those few fleeting connections had kept him grounded without going crazy of aloneness.
----End of Flashback----
Draco looked into the flames of the bonfire, his expression calm but thoughtful. "You don't become strong just by fighting. It's knowing when to fight and how to hold back those matters."
Shanks seemed to absorb every word, while Buggy scratched his head. "I guess that makes sense," Buggy muttered, not entirely convinced but still impressed by Draco's calmness.
Roger clapped Draco on the back, not even budging him over, with his infectious laughter. "Wise words, Draco! You're not just strong, you've got the wisdom of someone who's lived a hundred lives!", 'even though your only 8', before Roger took another swig of his drink.
The night continued, and Draco found himself surrounded by Roger's men, all eager to talk, drink, and ask him questions. He never imagined he'd be sitting here, sharing drinks with the man who would one day be called the Pirate King, and his rowdy crew.
----A Few Days Later----
After several days of celebration, it was time for Draco to leave his island behind. The Oro Jackson, Roger's legendary ship, was prepared to set sail, and Draco stood on the shore, gazing at the land he had called home for years.
His mind was flooded with memories of his endless training, the days he spent alone honing his strength, and the occasional encounters with strangers who brought stories of the outside world. This island had been his refuge, but it was time to move on.
With one last look, Draco turned and boarded the Oro Jackson. Roger stood at the helm, grinning from ear to ear. "Let's set sail, everyone!"
As the ship left the island, Draco stood at the back, watching his home fade into the distance. His journey was only just beginning, and he couldn't help but feel a surge of curiosity as the open sea stretched before him.